Taboo Game Guide: Rules, Forbidden Words, Timer & Strategy
Taboo
Describe the Guess word without using any of the forbidden words while your teammates race the timer.
Hasbro E2616 includes 162 cards, more than 640 Guess words, a squeaker, sand timer, score pad and Game-changer die. Teams score by guessing target words while the clue-giver avoids the listed Taboo words.
Game at a Glance
Say the Target
Your team tries to identify the Guess word.
Avoid Taboo Words
Listed forbidden clues cannot be used.
Squeaker
Opponents call out forbidden-word violations.
Race the Timer
Fit as many successful clues as possible into the turn.
Rules overview
Split into teams. The clue-giver takes a card and tries to make teammates say the Guess word before time expires, without saying any forbidden Taboo words. Opponents monitor the clue-giver with the squeaker. Correct guesses add to the team’s score; forbidden clues cost the point under this edition’s rules.
Learn Taboo in depth
Official source
Hasbro Taboo E2616 instructions. Checked September 27, 2026.